Tag: Public Relations

Transforming Networking in Financial Services: Chris Cherry’s Future-Proof Vision (Ep. 18)

Transforming Networking in Financial Services: Chris Cherry’s Future-Proof Vision (Ep. 18)

Building meaningful connections in the finance world doesn’t need to be confined to stuffy hotel ballrooms. 

In this episode of PRess Play: The StreeCred Podcast, hosts Elena Krasnow and Jimmy Moock are joined by Chris Cherry, head of strategic partnerships at Future Proof, for a powerful discussion about how she is redefining networking with her team through unconventional experiences and the company’s proprietary Breakthru technology.

Chris discusses her surprising career transition, her role in reimagining events across the wealth and asset management community and how Future Proof is facilitating unforgettable experiences like zip-lining and falconry. 

They discuss: 

  • the role of Breakthru Meetings, Talks and Experiences in enhancing event impact
  • Chris’ career journey from dental hygienist to a leader in strategic partnerships
  • the vibrant atmosphere and networking opportunities at the Future Proof Festival
  • Chris’ favorite moments from this year’s event 
  • details about the upcoming Future Proof Citywide event in Miami
  • and more!

Learn about the lore behind the event series that is changing how our industry approaches networking for good. 

Topics:

(0:56) Host Elena Krasnow introduces Chris Cherry

(2:59) What’s for lunch? 

(5:21) A quick stroll down food truck memory lane 

(6:10) Chris’ transition from dental hygienist to public relations professional 

(7:00) Chris’ first panel at Future Proof Festival

(7:40) When Chris and Matt Middelton collide

(8:08) Emotional intelligence and reading the room

(10:40) How Future Proof is selling itself 

(12:24) When you’re comfortable, business gets done 

(14:00) The story of Future Proof and its Breakthru networking technology

(16:38) The launch of Breakthru Talks

(17:21) Fly fishing and falconry 

(19:00) Future-proofing networking

(22:22) Matt’s vision for putting the advisor in the driver’s seat

(24:47) Breakthru listing

(26:15) Chris shares a few favorite moments

(28:33) “I’ll never miss it again” 

(30:40) Future Proof Citywide teaser 

(34:00) Building a successful outdoor event 

(36:00) Love for Paula 

(37:10) Time for our play segment!

(37:30) Paddle boarding, tennis and bartending 

(38:00) Chris’ cosmopolitan with a twist 

(40:00) Moment of gratitude

 

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About our Guest: 

Chris joined the award-winning Future Proof team in 2023 as head of strategic partnerships. Future Proof organizes a variety of events throughout the calendar year, all of which leverage cutting-edge event technology to connect people across the financial services industry. With pioneering formats such as outdoor festivals and curated retreats, Future Proof is reimagining the next era of finance events. And, the proof is in the pudding as Future Proof just earned a world-class NPS score of 74. 

Chris was recruited to be a key driver behind what could be described as Future Proof’s most innovative product, Breakthru, which consists of three distinct programs across Future Proof’s events. These include the Breakthru Meetings Program, Breakthru Talks and Breakthru Experiences. At this year’s Future Proof Festival, the technology helped facilitate over 30,000 one-to-one meetings, 166 peer-to-peer roundtables and 55 unique experiences. 

Previously, Chris spent seven years as chief engagement officer at JConnelly, a financial services communications and marketing firm. She is an expert at driving successful partnerships on a large scale and has a deep understanding of the role technology plays in accentuating in-person connections.

From PR Intern to President of Integrated Partners with Andree Mohr (Ep. 17)

From PR Intern to President of Integrated Partners with Andree Mohr (Ep. 17)

In this episode of PRess Play: The StreetCred PR Podcast, hosts Elena Krasnow and Jimmy Moock are joined by Andree Mohr for an engaging conversation about her impressive 14-year career trajectory and the incredible impact she is making at Integrated Partners. Andree draws compelling parallels between her beginnings as a financial services public relations/marketing intern and her current role as president of Integrated Partners. Listeners will glean tangible ways to leverage their PR skills for business growth. 

Andree also discusses: 

  • the power of storytelling in financial services
  • what excites her most about her current role
  • the development and impact of the CPA Alliance program at Integrated Partners
  • how to support advisors in navigating and implementing new financial technologies 
  • the inspiration behind writing Center Stage: How to Become the Star of Your Practice with co-authors Matt Ackermann and Paul Saganey
  • finding love at first sight with her husband Mike
  • and more!

Discover how Andree’s experience in public relations and marketing supported her rapid rise to executive leadership in wealth management in this fun and insightful conversation. 

Topics:

(1:01) Host Elena Krasnow introduces Andree Mohr 

(2:13) What’s for lunch? 

(4:36) New England Patriots 

(5:01) Andree Mohr’s early career in financial services public relations and marketing

(5:58) From Pioneer Investments PR and marketing intern to president of Integrated Partners

(6:26) The power of storytelling

(6:45) Intern to president in under 14 years

(8:00) Don’t be afraid to ask questions 

(8:22) Getting the ‘juicy nuggets’

(9:44) What are your ‘Big 3’? 

(10:30) What Andree is most excited for in her new role as president 

(12:14) Navigating the abundance of new fintech offerings

(14:44) Using technology to ease advisor pain points 

(15:54) The book Center Stage: How to Become the Star of Your Practice, inspired by Elton John

(21:37) Integrated Partner’s CPA Alliance 

(24:12) “What is my business really worth?”

(26:58) Public relations story time: Media tour gone wrong 

(28:30) Managing client and reporter expectations 

(28:50) The unknown you can never prepare for: The news cycle

(29:51) Time for our play segment!

(30:00) How Andree and Mike met/update on life with their identical twin daughters

(38:09) Moment of gratitude

Resources:

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About our Guest: Andree Mohr is the president of Integrated Partners. In her role she oversees day-to-day operations, manages budgets and drives the firm’s key objectives to ensure the consistent and healthy growth of the organization. She has supported advisors in various capacities for the last 13 years and is particularly passionate about helping entrepreneurial-minded financial advisors implement strategic operations that enhance efficiencies, foster practice growth and bring their business visions to fruition. Andree is the co-author— alongside her colleagues Matt Ackermann and Paul Saganey—of the recently published book Center Stage: How to Become the Star of Your Practice. She is a graduate of Northeastern University where she studied communications. Outside of work, Andree’s favorite pastimes include spending time with her husband and twin daughters, passionately cheering on the New England Patriots, traveling and supporting charitable causes she cares about.

If It’s Not an Obvious Yes, It’s A No with Michael Batnick (Ep. 16)

If It’s Not an Obvious Yes, It’s A No with Michael Batnick (Ep. 16)

In this episode of PRess Play: The StreetCred Podcast, Elena Krasnow and Jimmy Moock are joined by Michael Batnick, CFA®, managing partner at Ritholtz Wealth Management. From his early soul-searching in financial services to becoming a prominent industry thought leader, Michael provides deep insights into wealth management, strategic career moves and his personal approach to content creation.

Michael discusses: 

  • the full story of how a serendipitous train station encounter with Josh Brown sparked a transformative leap in his career
  • how he approaches hiring at Ritholtz and why he doesn’t read résumés  
  • why it’s important for him to continue overseeing client portfolios 
  • what he loves most about creating content for TCAF, The Animal Spirits podcast, The Unlock podcast, and The Irrelevant Investor blog
  • the launch of The Unlock, a new podcast tailored for financial advisors
  • his all-time favorite book recommendation 
  • and more!

 

Resources:

 

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About our Guest: 

Michael Batnick is managing partner at Ritholtz Wealth Management (“Ritholtz”) and has been with the firm for over 12 years. Prior to joining Ritholtz and becoming a founding partner, Michael had a career in life insurance sales. After following and deeply resonating with Josh Brown’s blog and podcast for years, Michael and Josh met serendipitously at a train station in their hometown, and the rest is history. Michael is a Chartered Financial Analyst® who is passionate about helping clients achieve their financial goals and remains involved in overseeing client portfolios via Ritholtz’s investment committee. He also writes the well-read newsletter and blog The Irrelevant Investor, and co-hosts multiple popular industry shows: The Compound and Friends with Josh Brown and guests; Animal Spirits alongside Ben Carlson; and The Unlock, a recently launched show that is tailored specifically to the needs of financial advisors and also co-hosted by Josh Brown.

The Parallels Between Business and Dating with Emily Binder (Ep. 15)

The Parallels Between Business and Dating with Emily Binder (Ep. 15)

In this episode of PRess Play, Elena Krasnow and Jimmy Moock sit down with Emily Binder, an influential voice in financial services and marketing, to cover everything from Vitamix recipes to business and dating analogies. Emily, the founder of WealthVoice and Beetle Moment Marketing, offers her unique blend of humor, wit and knowledge as she shares her professional journey and offers deeper insight into the value of voice marketing.

Emily also discusses: 

  • why she went into financial services and what inspired her to found WealthVoice and Beetle Moment
  • how to create engaging standout presentations by drawing from culture, pop culture and personal experiences
  • how missteps in business communication often mirror those in dating (and the importance of avoiding desperation when seeking to foster genuine connections)
  • her recent success with the launch of TIGER 21’s new podcast
  • why short, impactful video content can drive engagement and reach, with practical tips on leveraging YouTube shorts for your brand
  • …and more!

Tune in to explore the vibrant intersection of marketing, technology and financial services, and learn from one of the best in the business how you can enhance your brand’s digital presence.

Resources:

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About our Guest: 

Emily Binder is the founder of WealthVoice, the top voice AI marketing platform for podcasters and financial professionals, and is the founder and chief strategist of Beetle Moment Marketing. Beetle Moment is a boutique marketing agency known for delivering successful strategies to billion-dollar RIAs, custodian funds, and podcasters. Since 2017, Emily’s North Star has been marketing for durable businesses amidst emerging technology. She has worked with brands ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies, including names like TIGER 21, Ritholtz Wealth Management, TD Ameritrade, and Budget Rent A Car. She is an in-demand public speaker, having presented to live and virtual audiences of over 30,000 people at events like Future Proof, Jolt!, Social Media Week, and more. Emily also hosts the award-winning mini-podcast Voice Marketing with Emily Binder.

Tackling Anxiety Together with Julie Johnson and Jason Lahita (Ep. 14)

Tackling Anxiety Together with Julie Johnson and Jason Lahita (Ep. 14)

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, PRess Play deviates from its typical structure in this special episode to tackle an issue that touches many but is often shrouded in silence: anxiety. 

According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concern in the US, affecting over 40 million adults, or 19.1% of the population. And, more than 60% of people do not seek treatment for their anxiety symptoms. 

In light of these findings, Elena Krasnow is joined by guest co-host and founder of StreetCred PR Jason Lahita and Julie Johnson of XY Communication in this episode to talk about their personal journeys with anxiety, and how the industry at large can better support those who struggle with their mental health. 

They discuss individual coping mechanisms and address broader systemic solutions financial institutions can implement to support mental health, underscoring the vital importance of understanding, patience and advocacy for oneself and others. 

Julie and Jason discuss: 

  • Navigating anxiety in the high-stakes world of financial services
  • Why anxiety remains under-discussed, especially in high-pressure industries
  • Personal stories illuminating the varied experiences of anxiety, offering relatable insights and encouraging personalized solutions
  • Embracing vulnerability not as a weakness but as a means to build deeper connections and understanding, both professionally and personally
  • Strategies for managing anxiety, including how industry leaders can cope and thrive
  • Enhancing workplace support for mental health through understanding and accommodation
  • The importance of building supportive communities within the workplace to foster a more inclusive and mental health-friendly environment
  • And more

Disclaimer: None of the hosts or guests featured on this show are psychologists or certified mental health professionals. The advice given and stories shared are personal experiences and not professional advice.

Resources:

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About our Guest: 

Julie Johnson is the CEO of XY Communication, and a leading authority on intergenerational and gender communication, specializing in psychological safety and conflict management. Julie is a certified behavioral finance trainer, a certified facilitator in Adam Grant and Ray Dalio’s Principles U Program, a certified Brene Brown Daring Way facilitator, a globally licensed member of the International Coaching Federation, and a certified global speaker through the National Speaker Association. As a current member of the Forbes Coaches Council and a former Baron’s winning Senior Vice President with UBS, Julie has devoted her career to helping professionals and teams build trust, engagement and loyalty.

From Journalist to Finance Innovator: The Remarkable Journey of Mark Bruno (Ep. 13)

From Journalist to Finance Innovator: The Remarkable Journey of Mark Bruno (Ep. 13)

In this episode of PRess Play, Elena Krasnow and Jimmy Moock sit down with industry luminary, Mark Bruno of Emigrant Partners. Mark shares the story of his journey from an aspiring journalist to a pivotal figure at Emigrant Partners, highlighting the milestones and hurdles of fostering growth and innovation in financial services along the way. 

This episode is packed with insights for those eager to understand the complex world of financial media, spotlighting Mark’s extensive experience in navigating narratives within the finance sector through a multitude of mediums.

Discover the aspirations and driving forces behind one of the sector’s key figures as we explore the intricate dance of growing wealth management brands in today’s dynamic market. With stories about transformation and triumph, get a glimpse into the future of wealth management and fintech.

You’ll get an insider’s look at:

  • Mark’s personal and professional growth journey, shedding light on how he ultimately found himself at Emigrant Partners
  • Mark’s pioneering efforts in forming the IN Content Strategy Studio, and the role of data-driven journalism in creating engaging and educational content
  • The research Mark helped develop into a larger content strategy via InvestmentNews’ benchmarking studies purchased from Moss Adams 
  • The impact of the dot-com crash on Mark’s work in financial media and how it created room for innovation
  • Mark’s experience co-creating events like Informa’s Wealth Management EDGE and the lessons he learned along the way
  • The importance of fostering genuine connections and building a supportive community within the industry
  • And more

Resources:

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About our Guest: 

Mark Bruno is the managing director, head of strategic advisory at Emigrant Partners, where he is responsible for helping Emigrant’s partner wealth management firms identify and execute on opportunities to accelerate their growth. 

Prior to his current role, Bruno was the managing director of wealth management for Informa. During his time there, he developed strategies that ultimately advanced the brand’s position as a leading provider of media, events, and targeted business intelligence for financial advisors.

He has also served as managing director at Echelon Partners and InvestmentNews. During his time at InvestmentNews, he oversaw the growth and success of the company’s research, content strategy, digital, custom publishing and sales groups; in addition to managing and producing several events. Bruno also launched the InvestmentNews Content Strategy Studio, its dedicated marketing and custom content division.

His expertise has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Fortune and the Chicago Tribune. Mark is also a regular speaker at industry conferences and hosts the podcast RIA+.

Humanizing WealthTech: The Role of Brand Evangelism & PR with Diana Cabrices (Ep. 12)

Humanizing WealthTech: The Role of Brand Evangelism & PR with Diana Cabrices (Ep. 12)

In this episode of PRess Play, we’re joined by Diana Cabrices, the visionary founder of Diana Cabrices Consulting. She shares her insights into the intersection of brand evangelism and public relations in the wealthtech industry, and so much more.

Diana’s journey began with a mission to infuse personality into the tech world, recognizing the need for vibrant voices to represent brands authentically. She emphasizes the importance of a chief evangelist’s role in humanizing brand messaging and fostering genuine connections with customers. Moreover, Diana advocates for a collaborative partnership between brand evangelists and PR teams when it comes to amplifying company messaging. 

Join us as we uncover the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your brand through the dynamic synergy of evangelism and PR.

Diana discusses: 

  • Her personal backstory and her inspiring journey into wealthtech marketing
  • Connections between M&A and evangelism marketing
  • What it means to be a brand evangelist
  • Why the role of a chief evangelist is so important, and how she is championing the movement surrounding evangelism 
  • The unique power of combining brand evangelism and public relations
  • And more

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About our Guest: 

Diana Cabrices is the founder of Diana Cabrices Consulting, a brand evangelism firm dedicated to energizing demand channels for wealthtech and financial services brands. 

Prior to introducing the industry’s first-ever outsourced Chief Evangelist offering, Diana held executive roles in advisor marketing and technology, including vice president of enterprise development at Snappy Kraken. She has also supported thousands of financial advisors in implementing growth strategies across some of the most fundamental areas of their businesses — marketing, branding, technology, succession planning, recruiting, and M&A. 

In 2023 at the Excell Represent conference, Diana was named Women in Wealth Management’s “Up and Comer” for her outstanding achievements and innovation in financial services. 

Diana is a member of Women in Insurance and Financial Services, an association empowering women in the finance and insurance professions to succeed. She also leads the charge at Advisors Growing as a Community™, a community and peer networking organization, and sits on the advisory board for several technology and service companies driving growth and digital evolution in the industry. 

A bold businesswoman and brand-builder, Diana has traveled all over the country teaching financial advisors how to grow their businesses at scale. When she’s not evangelizing advisor tech, she’s usually planning her next trip, elevating women as a birth doula and business mentor, and spending time in the beautiful mountains of Colorado where she currently resides.

Shaping the Narrative: Shannon Rosic’s Journey in Wealth Management Technology (Ep. 11)

Shaping the Narrative: Shannon Rosic’s Journey in Wealth Management Technology (Ep. 11)

What are the forces shaping the wealth management technology narrative? Allow us to introduce Shannon Rosic, an exceptionally talented marketing specialist with expertise in video production, podcasting, social media, and event planning. She does it all!

Hosts Elena Krasnow and Jimmy Moock engage in an insightful interview exploring the dynamic world of wealthtech with Shannon, the Director of WealthStack Content and Solutions at Informa Connect. Her extensive experience and expertise positions her as a key influencer at the intersection of technology and wealth management. 

Picture a wealthtech journey filled with creativity and innovation. Shannon’s story sparks the desire to explore this space from a fresh perspective. 

This episode takes you through Shannon’s:

  • career journey and role in marketing and wealth management
  • experience in event planning and public relations in the financial industry
  • unique approach to various responsibilities in her hybrid role
  • insights on successful event planning and the importance of networking and content
  • belief in the importance of a strong partnership with PR agencies and aligning with the company culture
  • view on having a clear strategy and plan in public relations
  • passions outside of work, including barrel racing and caring for her horses
  • and much more!

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About our Guest: 

Shannon Rosic is an exceptionally talented and motivated marketing specialist with over nine years of proven experience in crafting impactful B2B digital content campaigns. She is a versatile professional who brings extensive skills in video production, podcasting, project management, social media, and event planning to the table.

Her multifaceted expertise and commitment to excellence make Shannon a dynamic contributor to any team or project, demonstrating a proven track record of delivering results in the ever-evolving landscape of marketing and communications.

Beyond the professional arena, Shannon’s passion extends to barrel racing at local rodeos, finding solace in the great outdoors while hiking with her two dogs, and embracing the thrill of skiing.

The Art of Listening: A Masterclass with Jack Sharry (Ep. 10)

The Art of Listening: A Masterclass with Jack Sharry (Ep. 10)

Listening, and we mean really listening, can transform anyone’s career. Today, Jack Sharry spills the secrets on the many ways this skill can elevate your professional journey.

In this episode, Elena Krasnow and Jimmy Moock dive deep into Jack’s financial expertise, passion for listening, and his multifaceted role as EVP and Chief Growth Officer at LifeYield. From podcast host to columnist and author, Jack’s story unravels the powerful blend of storytelling, media, and business strategy.

Buckle up as they explore the vital role of understanding audiences in unlocking transformative impacts for businesses. Join the conversation and discover how Jack’s journey from annuity wholesaler to senior leadership offers key lessons for fostering relationships in the financial sector. 

Don’t miss out on this episode that’s set to reshape your business outlook!

Jack discusses: 

  • His career in the financial industry
  • The importance of listening and storytelling in business
  • Listening to understand, not just to respond
  • His expertise and passion for connecting with others
  • Synergies between different forms of media and how he gets his ideas in front of key audiences
  • And more

Resources:

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About our Guest: 

Jack Sharry is executive vice president and chief growth officer at LifeYield, a technology company with comprehensive solutions that implement and coordinate tax-efficient investing and tax-smart retirement income planning, including optimizing Social Security benefits.

Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership roles at firms such as Morgan Stanley, Putnam, and Virtus. He actively contributes to various industry boards and publications and is involved in multiple organizations. His advocacy focuses on three key areas: combining wealth management with workplace benefits to expand access to financial advice; championing household-level financial planning and wealth management for improved investor outcomes; and promoting individual retirement security through tax-efficient decumulation strategies, social security optimization, and the effective use of annuities.

Jack hosts the popular industry podcast WealthTech on Deck attracting over 15,000 listeners and 35,000 downloads. He writes for Financial Advisor Magazine and InvestmentNews; he also authored the book Authentic and Ethical Persuasion: Achieving What’s Important in Life Through Committed Listening and Compelling Stories.

Helping Financial Advisors Bridge the Gap Between Consumer Demand and Advisory Firm Growth with Angie Herbers (Ep. 9)

Helping Financial Advisors Bridge the Gap Between Consumer Demand and Advisory Firm Growth with Angie Herbers (Ep. 9)

Get ready to embark on an enlightening and educational journey in our latest podcast episode as we sit down with Angie Herbers, the visionary founder and managing partner of Herbers and Company. 

With over two decades of experience in human capital consulting, growth consulting, and client experience modeling, Angie shares invaluable insights on achieving sustainable, long-term growth for financial advisory firms.

Angie takes us through the evolution of the financial services industry, emphasizing the concept of democratization and the critical importance of understanding consumer needs. In discussing what Herbers & Company is up to today, she delves into the findings of the firm’s most recently published study, which uncovers intriguing insights into the alignment (or misalignment) between consumer demand and advisory firm growth. 

Angie discusses: 

  • Her experience in the CFP® program at Kansas State University 
  • How she has built an authentic voice in financial services, and the key to separating her personal voice from her firm’s brand 
  • The democratization of the financial services industry and what it means for the mass affluent
  • Research conducted by Herbers and Company on consumer demand and advisory firm growth
  • The importance of financial advisors understanding their target market on a deeper level
  • How public relations plays a key role in Herbers & Company’s ability to effectively position itself with the public
  • And more

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About our Guest: 

Angie Herbers is the founder and managing partner of Herbers & Company, a full-service consulting firm serving financial advisory firms across the globe. She brings over two decades of experience in human capital consulting, growth consulting and client experience modeling to help financial advisory firms achieve long-term, scalable growth. Angie is a veteran writer and researcher for the advisory industry with regular columns at ThinkAdvisor, Citywire RIA WealthManagement.com, and more. Her industry and consumer research have won many industry awards and have been featured in numerous trade publications across the world. Investment Advisor Magazine has named her one of the “Top 25 Most Influential People in the Advisory Industry” numerous times over the past 20 years, and in 2023, Angie was named Consultant of the Year by Wealth Solutions Report. Angie is a graduate of Kansas State University’s CFP® registered undergraduate program. Today, she lives in Texas with her family.